July 19, 2023, is the release date of a new Warner Bros production: Barbie, a movie based on the iconic doll.
Explore with us the universe of this film, from its origins to the latest controversies.
Barbie: Fashion Icon
The famous Barbie doll has been a source of inspiration for big names in fashion. Among them, Yves Saint Laurent and Hermès.
She has also inspired designers such as Martin Margiela and Comme des Garçons. Finally, Jeremy Scott is also on this list.
Evolution of Barbie’s Style
1959-1962: From her introduction, Barbie displays bold fashion with a striped swimsuit. Quickly, she sports a classic wedding dress, then a Busy Gal business outfit. Her bubble cut is inspired by Jackie Kennedy.
1968-1985: Diversity appears with Christie, the first black Barbie. The 70s and 80s present a Malibu Barbie followed by a rocker and Peaches’N Cream.
2000-2016: At the turn of the millennium, Barbie adopts a political look reminiscent of Hillary Clinton. Bob Mackie designs a memorable dress for her 45th anniversary. Mattel, responding to criticism about the stereotyped Barbie, introduced in 2016 models of various body types.
2022: Embracing diversity, the contemporary Barbie features a prosthetic leg, reflecting societal changes.
Barbie’s Style in Greta Gerwig’s Film
After the success of her film Little Women, Greta Gerwig undertook the Barbie project. She collaborated with Oscar-winning costume designer, Jacqueline Durran.
The film focuses on the "beach" look of the Malibu Barbie. It incorporates a retro touch inspired by the 1950s and 1960s, as well as a hint of Brigitte Bardot.
The result? A Barbie in a pink gingham dress, merging past and present.
Remarkable Cast
The Barbie film features a talented ensemble cast embodying the iconic universe of this doll. In the lead, Margot Robbie delivers an impressive performance as Barbie. She is supported by Ryan Gosling, who, in the role of Ken, adds an extra dimension to the narrative.
The various representations of Barbies are carried by renowned actresses. Among them, Issa Rae, Emma Mackey, Hari Nef, Dua Lipa, Ana Cruz Kayne, Kate McKinnon, Sharon Rooney, Alexandra Shipp, and Ritu Arya.
With her unique voice, Helen Mirren enriches the film as the narrator.
The world of Kens also does not lack diversity, with the presence of actors such as Kingsley Ben-Adir.
Other notable actors who enrich the cast include Michael Cera, America Ferrera, Jamie Demetriou, and Connor Swindells.
With such a variety of talents, the film promises to deliver a great cinema experience.
Between Cinemas and Catwalks: Already a Huge Success
The feature film Barbie with Margot Robbie is the phenomenon of the day. The trailer had promised and the film did not disappoint. In just three weeks, it exceeded one billion dollars at the box office.
This enthusiasm did not remain confined to cinemas. Quickly, fashion followed. Collections inspired by the film emerged, tinged with pink.
And this color? It has become rare. Rumors speak of a shortage of pink paint. All because of Barbie!
Controversies and Reflections Around the Barbie Film
Greta Gerwig’s Approach
Greta Gerwig set out to renew Barbie’s image, offering a captivating satire that revolves around an existential crisis. She confronts Barbie with the reality of the "real world", leading her to question her own identity.
Feminism or Mattel Imperialism?
The film raises questions about its position towards feminism.
Is it a satire of patriarchy or just an ad for the famous doll?
The comedy is depicted as a "reverse genesis", where Ken is created for Barbie. This highlights the absurdity of patriarchy.
However, behind this film hides the influence of Mattel. The company benefits from promoting its iconic doll.
The increase in doll sales suggests a clever mix between the #MeToo movement and a well-thought-out marketing strategy.
Barbie Censorship in the World
The film faced bans in several countries.
In Algeria, it was removed from theaters for "offending morality" according to 24H Algeria.
Lebanon justified its ban by citing the "promotion of homosexuality and sex change".
As for Vietnam, it censored the film for its territorial representation which it considers pro-Chinese. Meanwhile, the Philippines demanded that certain controversial images be blurred.
Against all odds, the film was not banned in Saudi Arabia: it is even a great success there.
However, it was labeled as "decadent" in Kuwait and was censored there.
Cultural Impact in China
By trading her high heels for leather sandals, the doll has unleashed passions and desires. In China, consumers and netizens are rushing for Birkenstock and other Crocs, symbols of foot liberation.
Conclusion
Barbie has created a surprising buzz, propelling us where we least expected. The staggering revenues attest to her triumph worldwide.
More than a movie, it’s a daring rendezvous with the ideas of our time, merging controversies and reflections. An unexpected visual slap.